How to Use “Despite,” “In Spite Of,” and “Although”

In English, we often want to show contrast—when one thing happens even though something else could have stopped it. Words like despite, in spite of, and although help us express this idea. They all show contrast, but their grammar is different.

Let’s look at how to use them correctly.

1. Despite

Despite is followed by:

• a noun,
• a pronoun,
• or a verb in -ing form.

Examples:

• Despite the traffic, we arrived on time.
• Despite feeling sick, he went to school.
• Despite her age, she runs every day.

You can also say:
Despite the fact that + subject + verb

• Despite the fact that it was raining, we played football.

2. In Spite Of

In spite of means the same as despite, and the grammar is the same. It is just a little more formal or old-fashioned.

Examples:

• In spite of the cold weather, they went swimming.
• In spite of being tired, she continued working.
• In spite of his efforts, he didn’t win.

Also possible: In spite of the fact that + subject + verb

• In spite of the fact that she was busy, she helped me.

3. Although

Although is followed by a subject + verb. It connects two clauses (two parts of a sentence).

Examples:

• Although it was raining, we went for a walk.
• Although he studied hard, he failed the exam.
• She enjoyed the party, although she didn’t know many people.

Other options similar to although:

• Even though (stronger)
• Though (more casual)

Examples:

• Even though I was tired, I stayed up late.
• Though it was cold, we left the windows open.

4. Summary Table

Final Tip

• Use despite or in spite of when you don’t have a full sentence after them.
• Use although when the second part of the sentence has a subject and a verb.

Mastering these will help you speak and write English more clearly and naturally.